Speculation continues to suggest that Cologne frontman Podolski will be a top summer target for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

The Germany international is a proven goalscorer and Arsenal have been short of firepower in recent years.

Robin van Persie has been forced to carry much of the burden of responsibility in the final third and were he to pick up an injury or suspension, Wenger would find himself short of options in an important area of the field.

Podolski appears to be keen on the prospect of making a move to Emirates Stadium, having already been in touch with fellow countryman Mertesacker about life in north London.

"He has been very interested in the past few weeks and has sent me a number of text messages," the Arsenal centre-half told Sky Deutschland.

"I've told him that this is a great place to work and that Arsenal are an amazing club.

"Nothing has been agreed on yet, though, and Lukas hasn't given me a ring yet."